Monday, 11 March 2024

Unusual plumage

7th March 2024 - Andy M spotted what appeared to be the size and shape of a Collared Dove, but with completely dark grey plumage, rather than the more normal pinky brown-grey colour.  It seemed to retain the usual dark neck ring of the Collared Dove, as well as the usual red eye and red legs. Additionally, the plumage appeared to be soaked through, although over the time the bird was feeding it did not seem to change or dry out. Otherwise it was behaving and feeding perfectly normally, and could fly without problem.

It's possible this bird is melanistic, which is caused by a genetic mutation that results in an increased amount of dark pigmentation in some, or in this case all, of the feathers. It is unclear why the plumage appears wet through.  Andy emailed the BTO to seek their opinion.

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The Aims of Abington Naturewatch

At their meeting on 9 April 2005 the members approved this revised version of the aims of Abington Naturewatch:

  • To monitor and record the wildlife (fauna & flora) within the borders of the Abingtons;
  • To encourage protection of our wildlife, maintain its quality and foster its diversity;
  • To promote awareness of the richness, potential and problems of the natural environment of the Abingtons;
  • To cooperate in improving access to the local natural environment for the benefit of all Abington villagers.

Pat Daunt, Founder

The organisation is informal and communication is by email if possible; members are notified of events from time to time. Contact details are maintained by a small "project team". There is currently no membership fee as costs are covered by voluntary contributions at events.

Members are encouraged to report notable sightings of flora and fauna within the Abingtons to the appropriate sector coordinator and an illustrated record is published annually.

A map of the area covered, with some features noted, is available here: http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=213774935674882866424.00000111dca2be9f06ab8&z=13>

For more information or to join, please contact David Farrant on (01223) 892871.

Contributions to our records should be sent to sector contacts or either of the above. Photographs may also be submitted to Andy Merryweather (amerryweather61@gmail.com)